Advair Diskus & Generic Fluticasone-Salmeterol Diskus

ADVAIR DISKUS (Generic: Fluticasone & Salmeterol) - Canada Product Information

Advair Diskus is a medication that helps manage and treat asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It contains two medicines: fluticasone propionate, a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, and salmeterol, a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) that helps keep airways open.

What is Advair Diskus used for?

Asthma: Advair Diskus is prescribed for people whose asthma is not well-controlled with other medications, like inhaled corticosteroids, or whose asthma is severe enough to need both an inhaled corticosteroid and a LABA.

COPD: Advair Diskus helps improve breathing and reduces the number of flare-ups in people with COPD.

Important Information:

Not for sudden asthma or COPD symptoms: Advair Diskus should not be used as a rescue inhaler for sudden breathing problems. Always have a quick-relief inhaler (like salbutamol) with you for sudden symptoms.

Regular use: To benefit the most, use Advair Diskus regularly, even if you feel fine. Do not stop using it without talking to your doctor.

Dosage: The usual dosage is one inhalation twice a day (morning and evening). Follow your doctor’s instructions about how much to use.

Who should not use Advair Diskus?

Possible side effects:

Common side effects can include:

• Headache
• Throat irritation
• Hoarseness
• Oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth)

Uncommon but serious side effects can include:

• Increased risk of pneumonia in COPD patients
• High blood pressure
• Fast or irregular heartbeats
• Allergic reactions like rash, itching, or swelling

How to use Advair Diskus:

1. Prepare the inhaler: Open the Diskus by holding it in one hand and pushing the thumb grip until you hear a click.
2. Load the dose: Slide the lever until it clicks to load the medicine.
3. Inhale the medicine: Breathe out fully, place the mouthpiece to your lips, and breathe in quickly and deeply through your mouth. Hold your breath for about 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly.
4. Close the Diskus: Slide the thumb grip back to the original position to close the inhaler.

Storage:

Additional Tips:

Rinse your mouth: After using Advair Diskus, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to help prevent oral thrush.

Regular check-ups: Visit your doctor regularly to check your progress and ensure the medication is working effectively.

Do not share: Do not share your inhaler with others, even if they have similar symptoms.

When to seek medical advice:

• If you notice your asthma or COPD symptoms get worse.
• If you need to use your quick-relief inhaler more often than usual.
• If you have any concerns or questions about using Advair Diskus.